The beast (Antichrist) was allowed to brag and claim to be God, and for 42 months it was allowed to rule. The beast cursed God, and it cursed the name of God. It even cursed the place where God lives, as well as everyone who lives in heaven with God.  It was allowed to fight against... "God's people and defeat them." It was also given authority over the people of every tribe, nation, language, and race. The beast was worshiped by EVERYONE whose name was not written "before the time of creation" in the book of the Lamb who was killed.

If you have ears, then listen!  (What the Spirit is saying - now to the churches)
 
If you are doomed to be captured, you will be captured.
If you are doomed to be killed by a sword, you will be killed by a sword.

(A warning to God's people whose names are written in the Book of Life)

This means.... "God's people" must learn to ENDURE and be FAITHFUL! (Revelation 13:5-10)